An impressive sight, especially with Black Dragon Pool in the foreground, Yulong Xue Shan is actually a 13-peak massif that forms one wall of Tiger Leaping Gorge and whose tallest peak, Shanzidou, rises 5,596 meters (18,359 feet) above sea level. The range is home to one of the Northern Hemisphere's southernmost glaciers as well as a wide range of flora and fauna, much of it unique to the region. All of this combines to make it an increasingly popular tourist destination, so that in recent years swank resorts and hotels have begun to encroach on what was, until quite recently, a relatively untrammeled part of the world.

Hiking trails exist and are highly recommended, but the majority of visitors avail themselves of three chairlift lines that provide access to the retreating glacier (see it while it lasts, nature lover) and three designated scenic spots: Dry Sea Meadow (Ganhaizi), a large meadow which is now home to the world's highest golf course Cloud Fir Meadow (Yunshanping) where you can get a great view of the glacier and go horseback riding at 4,506 meters above sea level; and Yak Meadow (Maoniuping), which features breathtaking views and access to a number of trails. In each area, various manifestations of local minority culture, Chinese takes on ecological conscientiousness and excessive trinket shopping can be found.

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